Day 13 - (08/22) Mancos, CO

We drove 26 miles into Mesa Verde NP and climbed to Chapin Mesa (7,000ft). In doing so we were able to take three tours and look back in time at cliff dwellings built by the Anasazi. Though the Anasazi left no written record, it’s believed the structures here were built between 550 and 1300A.D. The experience was unforgettable. We hope you enjoy the views as much as we did.

Cliff Palace
This ranger-guided tour involved descending uneven stone steps and ascending five ladders for a 100ft vertical climb. This dwelling had more than 150 rooms and took about 100 years to build.

Up close

View of "the city"

Balcony House
This ranger-guided tour involved climbing a 32ft ladder, crawling through a 12ft-long tunnel, climbing up a 60ft open cliff face and two 10ft ladders to exit the site. This dwelling is believed to be one of the last built.

The ranger said not to look up or down.

It's a neat place with a great view.

This is the original entrance and exit.

Spruce Tree House
This self-guided tour of Mesa Verde’s best-preserved cliff dwelling involved a steep descent and ascent, but no ladders or tunnels.

Carol - in front of a small section of Spruce Tree House

Dick enters a ceremonial room called a "kiva"

Did you know?
Mesa Verde National Park is America’s first World Heritage Site.